NOTE: The State access building codes referenced in these Neighborhood Access reports are from the MA Architectural Access Board. These Rules and Regulations appear in the Code of MA regulations as 521 CMR 1.00, and are triggered by any construction, renovation, remodeling, or alteration of a public building or facility, or a change in use of building from private to public.
June 10, 2008
TO: Somerville ADA Coordinator Carlene Campbell
RE: Pedestrian walk button, mid-crossing, Somerville and Washington Street, Union Square
Hi Carlene,
The Pedestrian Signal post at the raised island mid-crossing in Union Square, at Somerville and Washington Street is inaccessible to wheelchair-mobile pedestrians. The pedestrian-activated button is at least seven feet - 84 inches- away from the wheelchair pedestrian’s hand!
Here are the applicable State building codes:
21.10.2 Location: Controls shall be located as close as practicable to the curb cut serving the controlled crossing and shall permit operation from a clear ground space.
21.10.4 Clear ground space: A stable and firm area, complying with 521 CMR 6.5, Forward Reach, or 521 CMR 6.6, Side Reach shall be provided at the controls. Where a parallel approach is provided, controls shall be within ten inches (10″ = 254mm) horizontally of and centered on the clear ground space. Where a forward approach is provided, controls shall abut and be centered on the clear ground space.
Thanks very much for your attention to this safety and accessibility need in Union Square.
Eileen Feldman
Posted in Accessibility, Neighborhoods and Squares
June 29th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Yahoo! A barrier eliminated.
“June 29, 2008
TO: Carlene Campbell, City of Somerville ADA Coordinator
RE: Follow-Up, Pedestrian walk button, mid-crossing, Somerville & Washington Street, Union Square
Hi Carlene,
The Pedestrian Access signal island barrier was eliminated sometime last week- Yay!!!
Thanks so much,
Eileen Feldman”